What is the difference between mastitis and thrush

Subclinical mastitis is caused by an overgrowth of the normal bacteria staph and strep that inhabit the breast and form thin biofilms around the milk ducts. They do not produce the toxins that can lead to acute mastitis, but they can form thick biofilms around the ducts, inflaming the epithelium and narrowing the ducts.

This makes it more difficult for milk to pass through, and the pain felt on MER can be felt as a stabbing, crampy or burning sensation.

These symptoms are often misdiagnosed as thrush. Women are then prescribed Diflucan, which does little to resolve the pain they are experiencing and appropriate treatment is delayed. In my private practice work, I have seen several cases like this; in one instance a client had been taking Diflucan and using thrush creams on and off for a two month period.

Plugged Milk Ducts Plugged ducts are a common concern in breastfeeding moms. Several things can cause plugged ducts: Severe engorgement , Regularly breastfeeding on only one breast, Skipping feedings or not feeding as often as usual, or Pressure against the milk ducts. A diaper bag strap or car seat belt pressing across your chest can cause it. So can wearing a bra that is too tight. Here are a few tips to help you get relief: Take a hot shower or apply warm, moist cloths over the plugged duct and the rest of your breast.

Massage your breast from the plugged duct down to the nipple before and during breastfeeding. Breastfeed frequently and use different positions.

Empty the affected breast first. Wear a well-fitting, supportive bra that is not too tight. Consider trying a bra without an underwire. Rely on others to help you get extra sleep or relax. This will speed healing.

Sometimes a plugged duct is a sign that you are doing too much. Breast Infection, or Mastitis Mastitis is a breast infection. But the mastitis may also include other signs, like these: Flu-like symptoms like fever, chills, body aches, nausea, vomiting, or fatigue. Yellowish discharge from the nipple that looks like colostrum. Breasts that feel tender, warm, or hot to the touch and appear pink or red. Thrush Thrush is a fungal infection that forms on the nipples or in the breast.

Thrush may have these signs: Sore nipples that last more than a few days, even after your baby has a good latch. Sore nipples after several weeks of pain-free breastfeeding. Pink, flaky, shiny, itchy, cracked, or blistered nipples. Achy breasts or shooting pains deep in the breast during or after feedings. It has been described as a stabbing or shooting pain, a deep ache or a burning sensation that radiates through the breast.

It may be in one or both breasts. There are usually no obvious signs of thrush on your nipples. However some signs may be present and include:. Breast or nipple thrush is treated with antifungal tablets and creams.

You also need to treat thrush in your baby and any other fungal infection in you or your family members. This pain may be severe enough to lead to early stopping of breastfeeding if not appropriately treated.

Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept. Causes Breast and nipple thrush may be linked to a history of vaginal thrush, recent use of antibiotics or nipple damage. Symptoms The most common symptom is nipple pain or breast pain, or both.